Automated Delivery System of a Cosmetic Sample

ABSTRACT

The present teachings contemplate a dispensing apparatus for cosmetic samples, the apparatus comprising a retail point of sale dispenser; a carrier including a plurality of mounts and a plurality of containers removably attached to the carrier via the plurality of mounts; with vertical and horizontal translational components; one or more information retrieval devices; a user interface including a data interface adapted to store information on the one or more information retrieval devices; a transparent panel covering at least a portion of the dispensing apparatus and wherein the one or more information retrieval device are adapted to be maintained in the possession of a user; and wherein the apparatus dispenses cosmetic samples based on user input.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

The present application is a national phase filing of serial numberPCT/US2016/036486 filed on Jun. 8, 2016 which claims the benefit ofprovisional application 62/172,509 filed on Jun. 8, 2015 and provisionalapplication 62/332,816 filed on May 6, 2016, the entirety of thecontents of each application being hereby incorporated by reference forall purposes.

FIELD

The present teachings relate to devices for an automated delivery systemof a hygienic cosmetic sample.

BACKGROUND

Consumers wishing to purchase cosmetics may encounter cosmetics whichare prepackaged and unavailable for sampling or cosmetics which are openand available to the general public for sampling. Prepackaged cosmeticsdo not provide consumers with customizable cosmetic samples or allow forconsumer cosmetic sampling before purchase. Open cosmetic samples may behandled and/or applied by many people. Multiple individuals may directlyapply the cosmetic samples to their face and/or hand, thereby posinghealth risks such as infections. Thus, consumers are faced with thedecision to purchase cosmetics based on the closed cosmetic package orsampling open cosmetics which may have been displayed and handled in apotentially unhygienic manner.

Certain types of cosmetics such as lip gloss, concealer and mascara,which include cosmetic applicators or foundation may pose additionalsampling problems. For example, lip gloss, concealer and mascara arefrequently enclosed in product bottles including a cap with an attachedcosmetic applicator, such as a brush applicator. Due to a lack ofadditional applicators, customers may lack a sanitary means to samplesuch cosmetics.

Prepackaged and open sample cosmetics also may not provide sample sizecosmetics for consumer sampling. Furthermore, open sample cosmetics mayhave been on display for an uncertain length of time. Therefore, it maynot be clear as to when an open cosmetic sample should be thrown awayand replaced. In addition, the appearance (e.g. color and texture) andshelf life of the open sample cosmetics may be affected by frequenthandling and/or improper storage. Therefore, the consumer may not beable to accurately determine whether a particular cosmetic is a suitablechoice for purchase.

A customizable cosmetic dispenser relating to a nail polish colorselection systemic is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,622,064 andincorporated by reference by herein. An apparatus relating to dispensinga custom cosmetic formulation is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,624,769and incorporated by reference by herein. These cosmetic dispensers maysuffer from one or more of the following disadvantages: may not dispensea sample size cosmetic, are limited or suitable for dispensing only onetype of cosmetic, are limited to dispensing only customizable cosmeticformulations and require a mixing apparatus.

Thus, there is a need to give customers an opportunity to sample acosmetic product before purchase that is hygienic. There is a need togive customers an opportunity to sample a cosmetic product beforepurchase that customizable. There is a need to give customers anopportunity to sample a cosmetic product before purchase that is sizeappropriate. There is a need to give customers an opportunity to samplea cosmetic product before purchase wherein the cosmetic sample is nothandled by other people. There is also need for a cosmetic sampledispensing apparatus which offers one or more of the following benefits:dispenses a sample size cosmetic, is suitable for dispensing multipletypes of cosmetics (e.g. lip gloss, concealer, and mascara), is notlimited to dispensing only customizable cosmetic formulations and doesnot require a mixing apparatus. The present teachings provide one ormore of the aforementioned opportunities/benefits.

SUMMARY

The present teachings contemplate an apparatus comprising a carrierincluding a plurality of mounts, a plurality of containers removablyattached to the carrier via the plurality of mounts, vertical andhorizontal translational components, one or more information retrievaldevices, a user interface including a data interface adapted to storeinformation on the one or more information retrieval devices and atransparent panel covering at least a portion of the dispensingapparatus. The one or more information retrieval device are adapted tobe maintained in the possession of a user. The apparatus dispensescosmetic samples based on user input.

The vertical and horizontal translational components may be comprised ofa robotic arm assembly. The vertical and horizontal translationalcomponents may be comprised of a robotic arm assembly including one ormore arm assemblies. The vertical and horizontal translationalcomponents may be comprised of a robotic arm assembly including threearm assemblies. The vertical and horizontal translational components mayinclude an arm assembly including a motor, a drive member, a slidingmember and an arm. The vertical and horizontal translational componentsmay include an arm assembly including a motor, a drive member, a slidingmember with a gripping portion and an arm. The vertical and horizontaltranslational components may include a first arm assembly and a secondarm assembly including a motor, drive member, sliding member and an armand a third arm assembly including a motor, drive member, sliding memberwith gripping portion and an arm.

The vertical and horizontal translational components may include arobotic arm assembly in which at least a portion of the robotic armassembly moves along one or more axis. The vertical and horizontaltranslational components may include a robotic arm assembly with threearm assemblies in which at least a portion of the robotic arm assemblymoves along the x-axis, the y-axis and the z-axis.

The carrier may be partially connected to a platform. The carrier mayinclude one more panels. The carrier may be substantially rectangular inshape. The plurality of mounts may be arranged in one or more rowsand/or columns. The container may include a bottle portion and a capportion. The apparatus may include a plurality of caps with attachedcosmetic applicators removably attached to the carrier via the pluralityof mounts. The apparatus may include a plurality of caps with attachedcosmetic applicators removably attached to the carrier via the pluralityof mounts, wherein the attached cosmetic applicators include mascarabrushes and lip gloss/concealer applicators. The apparatus may include aplurality of caps with attached cosmetic applicators removably attachedto the carrier via the plurality of mounts, wherein the caps withattached cosmetic applicators are adapted to fit with a gripping portionof a robotic arm assembly. The apparatus may include a control housingassembly including electrical components and computer components. Theapparatus may include a control housing assembly including electricalcomponents and computer components connected to a robotic arm assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary apparatus inaccordance with the present teachings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The explanations and illustrations presented herein are intended toacquaint others skilled in the art with the teachings, its principles,and its practical application. Those skilled in the art may adapt andapply the teachings in its numerous forms, as may be best suited to therequirements of a particular use. Accordingly, the specific embodimentsof the present teachings as set forth are not intended as beingexhaustive or limiting of the teachings. The scope of the teachingsshould, therefore, be determined not with reference to the abovedescription, but should instead be determined with reference to theappended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which suchclaims are entitled. The disclosures of all articles and references,including patent applications and publications, are incorporated byreference for all purposes. Other combinations are also possible as willbe gleaned from the following claims, which are also hereby incorporatedby reference into this written description.

The present teachings contemplate a dispensing apparatus for cosmeticsamples. The apparatus may be a retail point of sale dispenser. Theapparatus may include a carrier including a plurality of mounts. Theplurality of mounts may include a plurality of ingredient or cosmeticcontainers removably attached to the carrier via the plurality ofmounts. The apparatus may include vertical and horizontal translationalcomponents. The apparatus may include one or more information retrievaldevices. The apparatus may include a user interface including a datainterface adapted to store information on the one or more informationretrieval devices. The apparatus may include a transparent panelcovering at least a portion of the dispensing apparatus. The one or moreinformation retrieval device may be adapted to be maintained in thepossession of a user.

In addition, the present teachings provide individuals with anopportunity to have sample sized cosmetic products dispensed on demand,personalized to a specific individual. For example, based on anindividual's skin type, coloration, hydration level and the like.Furthermore, the present teachings provide for hygienic cosmetic sampleswhich may be delivered upon request via mobile device, wearabletechnology, biometrics, and the like as a single dosage or sample size.The automated delivery system of hygienic cosmetic samples may be forpersonal use either at point of sale or for in home use.

The automated delivery system of hygienic cosmetic sample may be housedwithin an adjacent and independent automated, custom cosmetic dispenser.The automated delivery system of hygienic cosmetic sample may be housedwithin a retail gondola and operated by a mobile app to deliver asample.

The location of sample dispenser technology (automated delivery system)may vary. The location may be at point of sale, for example, departmentstores, grocery stores, beauty retailers, and upscale discountretailers. The location within the aforementioned sites may be at one ormore of the following: counter, cash wrap, wall, floor, ceiling,free-standing, gondola, portable device that can be carried, and inconnection with a free-standing automated cosmetic dispenser thatcustomizes a cosmetic product for purchase. The location of sampledispenser technology (automated delivery system) may be at home. Withinthe home, the location may be free-standing (portable), on a countertop, or built into a wall. The location of sample dispenser technology(automated delivery system) may be a car. Within a car, the location maybe free-standing (portable), within seating or within a console.

The communication to sample dispenser technology (automated deliverysystem) may be any of the following: wearable technology, mobile device(app), thumb print recognition, facial recognition (biometrics), RFID,location technologies such as beacon, geometric, and the like, one ormore photographs taken at delivery system, and one or more photographsuploaded to the dispenser from a computer or mobile device.

The type of hygienic sample dispensed may be a customized sample. Thecustomized sample may be a combination of proportioned material (liquid,powder, or combination thereof). The proportioned material may bemixed/combined together manually and/or by an automated process tocreate a finished product for testing/sampling. The finished product maybe tested/sampled for appearance, texture, taste, color, and the likefor purchase at point of sale (POS) or for application at home, car,and/or other personal use.

The type of hygienic sample dispensed may be a sample of a finished orcompleted product for purchase or use. The dispensed sample may be oneproportioned substance delivered to a substrate for testing/sampling.The dispensed sample may be used to determine quality and preference forproduct by appearance, texture, taste, color, and the like for purchaseat POS or for application at home, car, and/or other personal use.

The substances to be dispensed may be liquids, solids or powders. Thesubstances to be dispensed may be liquids. The substances to bedispensed may include one or more of the following: cosmetic products,foundation, perfume, mascara, lip gloss, liquid lip stick, eye gel,cheek gel, cosmetic color stain, skin care products, cleanser, lotion,tooth paste, mouth wash, hand sanitizer, hair gel, hair styling foam,sunscreen, after shave, shaving cream and deodorant. The substances tobe dispensed may be solids, such as balms, lipstick and candle wax. Thesubstances to be dispensed may be powders such as body powder,deodorant, eye shadows, blush, bronzers and dry shampoo.

The apparatus may dispense one or more ingredients. The one or moreingredients may include any of the following: lip color composition,pigment composition, flavoring compositions, foundation composition,mascara composition, color gel compositions, cosmetic color staincomposition, skin care compositions, moisturizing compositions, dentalbleaching compositions, hair removal compositions, bronzer compositions,body shimmer compositions, hair shimmer/color compositions, hair stylingfoam compositions, dry shampoo composition, makeup remover compositions,nail polish compositions, nail polish remover compositions, acnetreatment compositions, hair bleaching compositions, antibacterialcompositions, deodorant compositions, perfume compositions, sunprotection compositions, exfoliation compositions or anti-agingcompositions shaving cream compositions, crème blush, crème rouge, skincrème, camouflage crème, massage crème, creme foundation, eye crème,rejuvenating eye crème, rejuvenating compositions, collagen crème,moisturizing crème, makeup removal crème, or the like. The one or moreingredients may include a lip color composition, a pigment composition,a flavoring composition or combinations thereof. The one or moreingredients may include any of the following: antibacterialcompositions, moisturizing compositions, dental bleaching compositions,hair removal compositions, bronzer compositions, body shimmercompositions, hair shimmer/color compositions, makeup removercompositions, nail polish remover compositions, acne treatmentcompositions, hair bleaching compositions, deodorant compositions,perfume compositions, sun protection compositions, lip colorcomposition, pigment composition, flavoring compositions, exfoliationcompositions or anti-aging compositions. The one or more ingredients mayconsist essentially of a lip color or eye color composition.

The apparatus may dispense one or more cosmetics. The apparatus maydispense one or more sample size cosmetics. The apparatus may dispenseone or more sample size cosmetics on a suitable cosmetic applicator. Theapparatus may dispense one or more sample size cosmetics on a suitablecosmetic applicator adapted for the apparatus. The cosmetics may includelipstick, lip pencil, lip crayon, eye pencil, eye crayon, foundationstick or any combination thereof. The apparatus may dispense liquidcosmetics such as concealer, foundation and/or primer. The apparatus maydispense foundation. The apparatus may dispense concealer. The apparatusmay dispense lip cosmetics such as lip gloss, liquid lipstick, lip tint,lip stain, lip shimmer. The apparatus may dispense mascara.

The substances may be delivered onto one or more types of substrates.The substrate may include a card. The card may be constructed any of thefollowing: coated paper, uncoated paper, plastic, wood, metal, glass ormirror. The substrate may include a towelette. The towelette may beconstructed of paper. The towelette may be constructed of fabric. Thefabric may be disposable. The substrate may include a cotton swab. Thesubstrate may include a brush. The substrate may include a disc. Thesubstrate may include a glass slide. For example, the apparatus maydispense one or more of a flavoring composition, lip color compositionand pigment composition onto a card. For example, the apparatus maydispense a fragrance or flavoring onto a card.

The substances may be delivered into one or more types of substrates.The substrate may include a container. The container may be any of thefollowing: a product bottle, cup, tray, towelette, brush, cotton swab.The substrate may be constructed of any of the following: coated paper,uncoated paper, glass, plastic, acrylic, fabric, wood, metal, mirroredmaterial. The substrate may include a pre-sealed cup. The pre-sealed cupmay be comprised of plastic, paper, and the like with aluminum and/orplastic covering that may be punctured. The substance may be injectedinto material such as a towelette that is pretreated or pre-moistened.The towelette may be pretreated or pre-moistened with vitamins,preservatives, fragrance, saline, lotion, zinc oxide, sunscreen, and thelike. The towelette may be biodegradable. One or more ingredients maydispensed into a mold for forming a unitary structure of a pigmentedcomposition.

The method of delivery of the substrate onto or into which the sample isdelivered may vary. The method for delivery of substrate may beautomated. For example, such as by card feeder, paper feeder, roll oftape/paper dispenser, product bottle gravity drop, rotating carousel,loaded magazine or robotically placed. The method for delivery ofsubstrate may be manual. For example, such as by individual feed. Arobotic arm may assist in dispensing one or more ingredients. Forexample, a robotic arm may assists in dispensing one or more ingredientsinto a mold for forming a unitary structure.

The method of delivery of the substance onto or into the substrate mayvary. The method for delivery may include actuator depressing syringes.The method for delivery may include spray. The method for delivery mayinclude spray air aerosol. The method for delivery may include gravitydrop.

The substrate may travel to receive the substance in proportionedamounts. The method of travel of a substrate to receive the substance inproportioned amounts may include one or movements. The movementdirection may be linear, vertical and/or rotational. The mechanism formovement may include a conveyor belt or be robotically carried fromlocation to location.

The method of delivery of the substrate including the sample to thecustomer may vary. The method of delivery may include one or more of thefollowing: lift door, pull door entry, slide, robotic arm carousel, andelevator.

The apparatus may include one or more methods and/or devices formaintaining information regarding samples dispensed to the customers.The methods and/or devices may provide data analytics. The methodsand/or devices for maintaining the data analytics may include mobileapps, network from dispenser and information generated, recorded andshared, social media resources, geometric location devices, beaconlocation devices and RFID.

The apparatus may provide a customized sample. The apparatus may providea combination of proportioned material (liquid, powder, combinationthereof) to be mixed/combined together manually and/or by an automatedprocess to create a finished product for testing/sampling of the productfor appearance, texture, taste, color, and the like for purchase at POSor for application at home, car, and/or other personal use.

The apparatus may provide a sample of a finished or completed productfor purchase or use. One proportioned substance may be delivered to asubstrate for testing/sampling to determine quality and preference forproduct by appearance, texture, taste, color, and the like for purchaseat POS or for application at home, car, and/or other personal use.

The present teaching may include one or more unit play areas. A unitplay area may include a mixing station unit. A unit play area mayinclude a sample tester unit. The tester unit may incorporate a roboticarm for custom cosmetic dispensing at POS.

The present teachings further contemplate a two-system interconnectedcosmetic dispensing apparatus. The apparatus may comprise a dispenser, acarrier including a plurality of mounts, a plurality of ingredientcontainers removably attached to the carrier via the plurality ofmounts, vertical and horizontal translational components, one or moreinformation retrieval devices, a user interface including a datainterface adapted to store information on the one or more informationretrieval devices, a transparent panel covering at least a portion ofthe dispensing apparatus. The one or more information retrieval devicemay be adapted to be maintained in the possession of a user. Thedispenser may translate one selection into another compatible,corresponding and/or identical formulation to an additional apparatusthat customizes a users chosen formulation. A custom formulation from afirst device may be communicated to a second device for productioneither in proximity to the first device or remotely. One device may be a3-D, 4-D or other dimensional printer. The device that initially receivea custom formulation, prints the cosmetic for sample for the user onto asubstrate and then further communicates with an additional cosmeticdispenser, translating one selection into another compatible,corresponding and/or identical formulation to an additional apparatusthat customizes a user's chosen formulation.

The present teachings contemplate a hygienic custom sample tester. Inone example, the sampling unit may have around 30 places foringredients. The sampling unit may have a robotic arm, around 30ingredient syringes, a conveyor belt to deliver samples, and a sample ona tester card. The sampling unit may fit inside existing footprint. Thesampling unit may have: color, coverage, flavor dollops delivered to atest card. The sampling unit may have a delivery system that may be aconveyer belt to pick up area.

The present teachings contemplate an apparatus for hygienic sampling atpoint of sale for cosmetics. The cosmetics may include foundations,concealers, lip colors and mascaras. The apparatus may include one typeof cosmetic, such as lip color, for sampling. The apparatus may includedifferent colors and/or brands of lip color. The apparatus may includedifferent types of cosmetics, such as lip gloss, mascara and concealerfor sampling. The apparatus may include different colors and/or brandsof the different types of cosmetics.

In one embodiment the apparatus includes lip gloss, mascara andconcealer. The apparatus may include lip gloss brush applicators,mascara brush applicators and concealer brush applicators. There may be20 applicators. There may be about 40 applicators. There may be about 10to about 100 applicators for each type of cosmetic. For example, theapparatus may include one lip gloss, one mascara, one concealer, 20 lipgloss brush applicators, 20 mascara applicators and 20 concealerapplicators.

The apparatus may include product bottles for testing. The dimensions ofthe product bottles for testing may be the same. The dimensions of theproduct bottles for testing may be different. The necks of the productbottles may be consistent. The container neck size may vary. The lengthof the product bottles may be the same. The length of the productbottles may be different.

The apparatus includes may include different brushes for testing. Theapparatus may include lip gloss brush applicators. The apparatus mayinclude mascara brush applicators. The apparatus may include concealerbrush applicators. The brushes may be fitted with an adaptor to functionproperly in the testing apparatus.

The apparatus includes a customer interface design. The customerinterface design may include an icon to represent each product to betested by a customer. The customer interface design may include one lipgloss icon, one mascara icon and one concealer icon.

The apparatus may include a customer interface. The customer interfaceallows a customer to select position one, two or three for productsample testing. The customer may select one product to be tested (lipgloss, mascara, concealer). The brush that sits in the product containermay be picked-up and vertically brought out of the product container. Asmall amount of product (e.g. lip gloss, mascara, concealer) is presenton end of brush. The brush may be removed and disposed of by customer.The brush may be placed back on a picker to be sent back to waiting areafor placement for future disposing. The apparatus may signal to acustomer that product is ready for take away or pick-up. A new brush maybe picked-up and placed into the product bottle that was just selectedfor testing in order to keep product from drying out.

The apparatus may include an administrative user interface. Theadministrative user interface may allow one or more of the following:homing of the device, reset page of device if unit should fail, countproduct tested per section, count brush positions until empty, count howmany dips per bottle and notify administrator when product bottle needsto be changed out/replaced.

In one example, the apparatus delivers 60 brushes of product sample. Forexample, 20 brushes with lip gloss from position 1, 20 brushes withmascara at position 2 and 20 brushes of concealer at position 3. Theapparatus maybe be refillable of product, such as lip gloss, mascara,and concealer, as well as sample disposable brushes for demonstration.Full product bottles are exchangeable with new product containers forrefilling successfully. The product containers may be changed out. Thesample brush holder area may be filled.

The apparatus may allow for tester brush magazine placement and removal.The apparatus may include software for administration use for refillingand for product delivery to customer. The apparatus may include acustomer interface that may allow for a used brush to be delivered todrop off area for used brushes. The apparatus may include homing anddelivery of 5 additional brushes with product per each bottle once theinitial demonstration of 20 brush delivery is complete (60 brushdelivery in total). The apparatus may include markings on the platformin order to successfully change out containers and brushes forsuccessful placement for demonstration. The apparatus may provideproduct that is placed on each brush without excess. The apparatus mayprovide product that delivered to customer for pick up with a button onthe customer interface. The apparatus may take a used brush and place itin a holding area for later disposal.

The apparatus may dispense the selected cosmetic sample within about oneto about five minutes of user selection. The apparatus may dispense theselected cosmetic sample within about one minute of user selection. Theapparatus may dispense the selected cosmetic sample within about twominutes of user selection. The apparatus may dispense the selectedcosmetic sample within about three minutes of user selection. Theapparatus may dispense the selected cosmetic sample at any suitable timeafter user selection. For example, the user may input data and select acosmetic that is dispensed after an hour, two hours, three hours or evena day after user input. The apparatus may include a data interfaceadapted to store information on the one or more information retrievaldevices regarding user input, cosmetic selection and/or dispensing ofcosmetic samples.

The apparatus may provide for one or more of the following: correctplacement of brush, correct pick-up of brush with product on end ofbrush, correct delivery of brush with product on end of brush fortesting, correct delivery of brush with product on end of brush towaiting area, and correct refill of magazine of loaded brushes.

The present teachings contemplate an apparatus comprising a carrierincluding a plurality of mounts, a plurality of containers removablyattached to the carrier via the plurality of mounts, vertical andhorizontal translational components, one or more information retrievaldevices, a user interface including a data interface adapted to storeinformation on the one or more information retrieval devices and atransparent panel covering at least a portion of the dispensingapparatus. The one or more information retrieval device are adapted tobe maintained in the possession of a user. The apparatus dispensescosmetic samples based on user input.

The apparatus may dispense one or more sample size cosmetics. Theapparatus may dispense one or more sample size cosmetics on one or moretypes of suitable cosmetic applicators. The apparatus may dispense oneor more sample size cosmetics on a suitable cosmetic applicator adaptedfor the apparatus. The cosmetics dispensed may include, but are notlimited to any combination of the following: concealer, foundation, lipgloss and mascara.

The apparatus of the present teachings includes a carrier. The carriermay be substantially rectangular in shape. The carrier may be anysuitable shape. The carrier may include one or more panels. The carriermay include one or more side panels. The carrier may include one or moretop panels. The one or more top panels may be attached at differingheights to the one or more side panels. The one or more top panels mayinclude a plurality of openings. The carrier may include a bottom panel.The bottom panel of the carrier may be partially attached to a platform.The carrier may include plastic, glass, stainless steel or any othersuitable material. The carrier may be comprised of a transparent plasticmaterial. The carrier may be comprised of a combination of materials.

The carrier may include a plurality of mounts. The plurality of mountsmay be arranged in one or more rows and/or columns. The mounts may varyin shape and/or size. The mounts may be the same shape and/or size. Theplurality of mounts may hold containers. The containers may include abottle portion and a cap portion. The containers may include removablyattached caps with an attached cosmetic applicator. The carrier mayinclude separate sections. The carrier may include a section for holdingone or more containers with removably attached caps with an attachedcosmetic applicator. The carrier may include a section for holding oneor more caps with an attached cosmetic applicator. The carrier may holdthe containers including removably attached caps with an attachedcosmetic applicator and/or caps with an attached cosmetic applicator sothat they are suspended in air, enclosed in mount wells or both.

Items may be held in the plurality of mounts on an angle. Items held onthe carrier may exist on a common plane or on a plurality of planes. Thearrangement of the containers and/or caps with attached cosmeticapplicators on the carrier may vary. Suitable arrangements includepatterns such as a radial disposition or linear disposition. In oneexample, the containers and/or caps with attached cosmetic applicatorsare arranged in a linear fashion in columns and/or rows. However,non-pattern arrangements are also contemplated.

The apparatus of the present teachings includes one or more containers.The containers may vary in shape and/or size. One or more of thecontainers may be at least partially transparent for revealing contents.The containers may hold cosmetics. The containers may hold the samecategory (e.g. mascara) of cosmetic. The containers may hold thedifferent categories (e.g. mascara, concealer, lip gloss) of cosmetics.The containers may hold one or more ingredients for cosmetics. Thecontainers may include plastic, glass, stainless steel or some othersuitable material. The containers may be selected from the groupconsisting of: bags, cartridges, bottles, vials, tubes, barrels, wellsin a block of material, cans or any combination thereof. The containersmay be disposable or re-useable. The containers may include a bottleportion and a removably attached cap portion. The cap portion mayinclude an attached cosmetic applicator. The bottle portion of thecontainer may be the same bottle as the prepackaged cosmetic container.

The containers may include a removably connected cap. The caps may varyin shape and/or size. The cap may include a cosmetic applicator. Thecosmetic applicator may be attached to the cap. The cosmetic applicatormay vary in shape and/or size. The applicator may be a cosmeticapplicator wand that includes a top portion that is attached to theinterior bottom portion of the cap and a bottom portion that is attachedto any suitable component (e.g. brush) for cosmetic application.

The cosmetic applicator may be adapted for a particular type ofcosmetic. The cosmetic applicator may include bristles. The cosmeticapplicator may include a sponge-tip. The cosmetic applicator may be adoe foot applicator.

The apparatus may include one more containers with a removably attachedcap with attached cosmetic applicator. The apparatus may include one ormore caps with attached cosmetic applicator that are unattached to theone or more containers. The apparatus may include one type of cosmeticapplicator. The apparatus may include multiple types of cosmeticapplicators.

The cap with attached cosmetic applicator may be adapted to fit with thegripping portion of a robotic arm assembly. For example, the top portionof the cap may include a recess or bore whereby the gripping portionremovably attaches to the top portion of the cap. The recess or bore maynot go all the way through the cap. The recess or bore may be anysuitable shape. For example, the recess or bore may be circular. Therecess or bore may include grooves. The recess or bore may be threaded.The recess or bore of the cap is such that the gripping portion of arobotic arm assembly may lift the cap and attached cosmetic applicatorup, out and away from the bottle portion of the container. The cap withattached cosmetic applicator stays securely attached to the grippingportion until release and/or removal.

The apparatus may include a control housing assembly. The controlhousing assembly may include a housing cover. The housing cover may be asuitable molded plastic configuration. The control housing assembly mayinclude electrical components. The control housing assembly may includecomputer components. The control housing assembly may include one ormore hardware components of a computer system. The control housingassembly may be connected to one or more components of a computersystem.

The housing cover may include openings for allowing access to electricalpower connections, data communication ports or the like. The controlhousing assembly may be communication with the robotic arm assembly. Thecontrol housing assembly may be in communication with one or morecomponents of the computer system. The control housing assembly may bein communication with the computer system. The communication between thecontrol housing assembly and other parts of the apparatus may bewireless, non-wireless or both.

The apparatus may be connected to any suitable power source. Theapparatus may be connected to an electrical power source. The apparatusor any portion of the apparatus may include an actuator. The apparatusmay be motorized. The apparatus may include one or more motors. Themotor may be a step motor. The motor may be a step motor with amicrostep drive. The step motor with microstep drive may include a DCpower supply suitable for the motor and current resistor set. Theapparatus may be battery operated. The apparatus may include one or morebatteries. The apparatus may be operated manually.

The apparatus may include electrical circuitry adapted to signallyinterface with one or more components of the apparatus. The electricalcircuitry may include one or more electrically conductive paths (e.g.,hard-wired cables, wires, traces, etc.). The apparatus may include atleast one printed circuit board (“PCB”). The conductive paths may bepart of the at least one PCB. For example, such as a PCB includingconductive paths on two or more surfaces in electrical communicationwith each other through conductive vies.

The PCB may be single sided, double sided or multi-layered. The PCB maybe a double sided board. The PCB may be 4 layer board. The PCB board mayinclude up to seven layers. The PCB layers may include one or more ofthe following: silkscreen, top solder mask, top copper, inner copperground plane, inner copper power plane, bottom copper and bottom soldermask.

The electrical circuitry for operations of the apparatus may be carriedon at least one PCB. The PCB may also carry a controller. The PCB may beadapted to include a connector to accept power and ground lines from oneor more power supplies. The PCB may include one or more fuses to helpprevent damage to electronic components. The PCB may be adapted toinclude suitable elements, for example a plurality of capacitors, forhelping to minimize fluctuations and noise in the incoming power supply.Suitable elements, for example diodes, may be employed to selectivelydirect the flow of current. The present teachings may include mayinclude one or more of the following: connectors, integrated circuits,batteries, relays, motors, resistors, capacitors, inductors,transistors, diodes, electrolytic caps, LEDS, switches, buttons,mounting holes, and heat sinks.

The electrical circuitry may include a plurality of circuit portionsthat collectively define a part of or a complete single circuit. Theelectrical circuitry may include a plurality of circuit portions thatcollectively define a plurality of circuits. A plurality of circuits maybe independent circuits, which nonetheless may be configured to functioncooperatively with each other to perform the recited functions of thepresent teachings. At least a portion of the electrical circuitry may beenclosed by the housing control assembly.

The apparatus may include a motherboard as a main PCB. The motherboardmay allow communication between a computer system and provide connectorsfor other peripherals. The peripherals may include input devices (e.g.keyboards or mice), output devices which provide output to the user fromthe computer system (e.g. monitors or printers) or input/output deviceswhich provide both functions (e.g. touchscreen).

The apparatus includes a user interface that facilitates the selectionof one or more cosmetic samples by a user. The apparatus may include aninteractive computer system. A user may communicate with the apparatusvia the computer system. The user may be the consumer, a salesassociate, a technician or any other individual. A user may input dataregarding one or more cosmetics. A user may input data regardingpersonal information and/or preferences. A user may input data regardingselection of one or more cosmetics. The data input by the user is thenoutput by the computer system to one or more controllers and a cosmeticsample is dispensed based on the user input data. The computer systemmay be programmed with one or more programming languages designed tocommunicate instructions to the computer system. The computer system mayinclude suitable memory components.

The computer system may include one or more information retrievaldevices. For example, the one or more information retrieval devices mayinclude radio frequency identification device, wearable technology,mobile device (app), thumb print recognition, facial recognition(biometrics), location technologies such as beacon, geometric, and thelike, a photograph taken at delivery system and a photograph uploaded todispenser from a computer or mobile device. The one or moreinformational retrieval devices may store information relating to theamount of products purchased, consumed, or dispensed from the dispensingapparatus. The one or more information retrieval devices may beconfigured to make recommendations of ingredients to be dispensed fromthe dispensing apparatus based upon information stored in the one ormore informational retrieval devices. The apparatus may transfer aproduct to a user after a product is ordered via mobile device, online,or after a user has moved away from the apparatus and then returned tothe apparatus after a lapsed period of time. A product may betransferred to a user once a signal is received from the informationretrieval device.

The computer system of the present teachings may be in communicationwith one or more peripheral devices. The peripheral device may be aninput device. The peripheral device may be an output device. Theperipheral device may be both an input/output device. The apparatus mayinclude input peripherals selected from the group consisting of:keyboards, computer mice, tablets, touchscreens, barcode readers, imagescanners, microphones, webcams, game controllers, light pens, anddigital cameras. The apparatus may include output peripherals selectedfrom the group consisting of: computer displays, printers, projectors,and computer speakers.

The functions performed by the above input and output devices may bedivided among multiple devices or integrated into a single device. Theinput devices may directly communicate with the dispensing apparatus orindirectly communicate via an additional medium (e.g., computer). Eachof the respective components may be controlled independently, throughits own control system, or by way of one or more computers.

The apparatus locates the desired cosmetic based upon user input. Theapparatus may include vertical and horizontal translational components.The vertical and horizontal translational components may comprise arobotic arm assembly.

In one example, the apparatus includes a robotic arm assembly. Therobotic arm assembly may include one or more programmable armassemblies. The robotic arm assembly may be programmed to locate theproper location and/or cause dispensing from the items held in theplurality of mounts on the carrier.

The robotic arm assembly may include one or more arm assemblies. Therobotic arm assembly may include a first arm assembly. The robotic armassembly may include a second arm assembly. The robotic arm assembly mayinclude a third arm assembly. The robotic arm assembly may be comprisedof three arm assemblies. At least a portion of the robotic assemblyrobotic arm assembly may move along one or more axes. Movement of therobotic arm assembly may be simultaneous. Movement of the robotic armassembly may be consecutive.

At least a portion of the robotic assembly may move along the x, y and zaxis. At least a portion of the robotic assembly may move along anycombination of the following: x, y and z axis. The movement paths may beone or more of the following: translational, rotational, linear ornon-linear. At least a portion of the robotic assembly may bestationary.

Movement of robotic assembly or any portion of the apparatus may beachieved using any suitable drive mechanism. A drive mechanism mayinclude pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical or mechanical drive means. Therobotic assembly may include one or more drive members. The one or moredrive members may be any suitable shape. For example, the drive membermay be a drive shaft. For example, the drive member may be a drive belt.

A robotic arm assembly may be comprised of one or more arm assemblies.An arm assembly may include a motor, a drive member, a sliding memberand an arm. The motor may move the drive member in a first direction.The motor may move the drive member in an opposing second direction. Thedrive member may be threaded. The drive member may be non-threaded. Thedrive member may move rotationally. The rotation of the drive member maycause movement of the sliding member. The sliding member may beslidingly engaged with the arm. The arm may be stationary. The slidingmember may move linearly along the arm in a first direction. The slidingmember may move linearly along the arm in second direction opposing thefirst direction. The sliding member may be include a gripping portion.The gripping portion may move in same direction as the sliding member.

In one example, the robotic arm assembly includes a first arm assembly,a second arm assembly and a third arm assembly with a gripping portion.The robotic arm assembly moves towards the desired cosmetic containerwith removably attached cap including an attached cosmetic applicator.At least a portion of the robotic assembly may move along an x-axisand/or z-axis along the carrier to locate the cosmetic containerincluding the desired cosmetic.

At least a portion of the robotic arm assembly with gripping portionmoves downward along a y-axis to contact the cap of the desired cosmeticcontainer held in a mount of the carrier with the gripping portion. Thegripping portion of the robotic assembly makes contact with the topportion of the cap. The gripping portion of the robotic assembly isadapted to fit with the top portion of the cap. The top exterior portionof the cap of the container may include a recess or bore. The topexterior portion of the cap of the container may include grooves. Thetop exterior portion of the cap of the container may be threaded. Thegripping portion may be substantially planar, include grooves or both.The gripping portion may be threaded. At least a portion of the roboticarm assembly lifts the cap with the attached cosmetic applicator upwardsalong a y-axis and out of the bottle portion of the container.

At least a portion of the robotic arm assembly including the grippingportion attached to the cap with attached cosmetic applicator includinga cosmetic sample moves towards a designated location. For example,towards an individual positioned near a selected location. The cap withattached cosmetic applicator including a cosmetic sample stays securelyattached to the gripping portion until release and/or removal. Forexample, an individual may remove the cap with attached cosmeticapplicator including a cosmetic sample by pulling it away from thegripping portion.

After release and/or removal of the cap with attached cosmeticapplicator including a cosmetic sample, at least a portion of therobotic arm assembly moves away from the designated location. Forexample, away from the individual towards the carrier with the pluralityof mounts. The apparatus locates a cap with an attached cosmeticapplicator that corresponds to the previously dispensed cosmetic sample.For example, if the carrier includes the following: containers includingmascara, lip gloss, concealer, caps with attached mascara applicatorsand caps with attached lip gloss/concealer applicators, and thepreviously dispensed cosmetic sample was mascara, the apparatus willlocate a cap with an attached mascara applicator from the plurality ofmounts in the carrier. The mounts including the mascara applicator maybe located in one or more rows and/or columns near the mascaracontainer. At least a portion of the robotic arm assembly with grippingportion then moves downward along a y-axis to contact the cap withattached cosmetic applicator corresponding to the type of cosmeticsample previously dispensed. At least a portion of the robotic armassembly moves upwards along the y-axis and lifts the cap with theattached cosmetic applicator upwards and out of the mount of thecarrier.

The apparatus locates the bottle portion of the container of thepreviously dispensed cosmetic. For example, if the previously dispensedcosmetic was mascara, the apparatus locates the uncovered mascarabottle. At least a portion of the robotic arm assembly with the grippingportion securely attached to the cap with an attached cosmeticapplicator moves along an x-axis and/or z-axis towards the mount of thecarrier holding the bottle of the previously dispensed cosmetic. Atleast a portion of the robotic arm assembly with the gripping portionsecurely attached to a cap with an attached cosmetic applicator movesdownward along a y-axis and into the bottle of the previously dispensedcosmetic. The cap with an attached cosmetic applicator is released fromthe gripping portion so that the cosmetic applicator portion is insidethe bottle and the attached cap covers the bottle. At least a portion ofthe robotic arm assembly with the gripping portion moves upward along ay-axis away from the cosmetic container.

The apparatus may provide additional cosmetic samples depending on userinput. The apparatus may provide another sample from the same bottle asthe previous cosmetic sample. The apparatus may provide another samplewhich is from the same category as the previous sample. For example, ifthe previously provided sample was mascara, the apparatus may provide asample of a different mascara. The apparatus may provide another samplewhich is from a different category as the previous sample. For example,if the previously provided sample was mascara, the apparatus may providea sample of lip gloss. The apparatus may provide samples of one or morecosmetics. The cosmetics may vary by any of the following: category ofcosmetic, type of cosmetic applicator, color, brand, claimed feature.

The apparatus may be for use at a site where the point of sale is thesame as the point of dispensing. The apparatus of the present teachingsmay be separated into two or more modular components. The apparatus maybe integrated into a general housing assembly. The apparatus may includeone or more transparent panels. The one or more transparent panels maycover one more modular components of the apparatus. The general housingassembly may include one or more transparent panels. The one or moretransparent panels may allow consumers to view the moving partsassociated with the apparatus and operation. Consumers are thereby isensured that they are receiving a hygienic cosmetic sample and that hasnot been repeatedly handled by the general public. The apparatus may beused in one or more locations such as at retail point of sale, in home,in hotel, in automobile and in airplane. The apparatus may also provideany of the following: attract consumers, entertain and provide aninteractive user experience. 28.

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of one example of the presentteachings. An apparatus 100 is depicted including vertical andhorizontal translational components comprised of a robotic arm assembly110, a carrier 120, a control housing assembly 140 and a user interface150.

The robotic arm assembly 110 includes multiple arm assemblies. The firstarm assembly 512 includes a first arm 112, a first motor 212, a firstsliding member 312 and a first driving member 412. The second armassembly 514 includes a second arm 114, a second motor 214, a secondsliding member 314 and a second driving member 414. The third armassembly 516 includes a third arm 116, a third motor 216, a thirdsliding member 316 with a gripping portion 318 and a third drivingmember 416. The robotic arm assembly 110 is partially connected to aplatform 124. The platform 124 is also partially connected to thecarrier 120.

The carrier 120 includes a plurality of mounts 122. The plurality ofmounts 122 hold one or more containers 130. The containers 130 mayinclude one or more type of cosmetics (e.g. mascara, lip gloss andconcealer). The container 130 includes a bottle portion 132 and a capportion 134. The cap portion 134 includes an attached cosmeticapplicator 136. The top portion of the cap 134 includes a bore 138 whichdoes not extend all the way through the cap 134. The plurality of mounts122 hold one or more additional caps 134 with attached cosmeticapplicators 136. The additional caps 134 with attached cosmeticapplicators 136 may include more than one type of applicator (e.g.mascara and lip gloss/concealer applicators). The gripping portion 318of the sliding member 316 removably attaches to the bore 138 of the cap134.

At least a portion of the robotic arm assembly 110 moves along the x, yand z axes. At least a portion of the second arm assembly 514 and thirdarm assembly 516 move along the x axis. The movement is along the lengthof the carrier 120 along the x-axis. At least a portion of the third armassembly 516 moves along the y-axis. The movement is from a locationabove the carrier 120 to a point of contact between the gripping portion318 of the third arm assembly 516 and a cap 134. At least a portion ofthe third arm assembly 516 including the gripping portion 318 movesalong the z-axis. Movement is along the width of the carrier 120 alongthe z-axis.

The first arm assembly 512 includes a first motor 212. The first motor212 causes rotational movement of the first drive member 412. The firstdrive member 412 is engaged with the first sliding member 312. Rotationof the first drive member 412 in one direction results in the firstsliding member 312 moving linearly along the x-axis in a firstdirection. Rotation of the first drive member 412 in an opposingdirection results in the first sliding member 312 moving linearly alongthe x-axis in a second direction opposing the first direction. The firstsliding member 312 is slidingly engaged with the first arm 112. Thefirst arm 112 is stationary relative to the platform 124 and generallyparallel to the first drive member 412. The first arm 112 is generallyparallel to the x-axis. At least a portion of the first sliding member312 is affixed to the second arm 114, the second motor 214, or both.Movement of the first sliding member 312 along either direction of thex-axis causes movement of the second arm assembly 514, the third armassembly 516 and/or the gripping portion 318 along the x-axis.

The second arm assembly 514 includes a second motor 214. The secondmotor 214 causes rotational movement of the second drive member 414. Thesecond drive member 414 is engaged with the second sliding member 314.Rotation of the second drive member 414 in one direction results in thesecond sliding member 314 moving linearly along the y-axis in a firstdirection. Rotation of the drive member 414 in an opposing directionresults in the second sliding member 314 moving linearly along they-axis in a second direction opposing the first direction. The secondsliding member 314 is slidingly engaged with the second arm 114. Thesecond arm 114 is vertically stationary and generally parallel to thesecond drive member 414. At least a portion of the second sliding member314 is affixed to the third arm 116, the third motor 216, or both.Movement of the second sliding member 314 along either direction of they-axis causes movement the third arm assembly 516 and/or the grippingportion 318 along the y-axis.

The third arm assembly 516 includes a third motor 216. The third motor216 causes rotational movement of the third drive member 416. The thirddrive member 416 is engaged with the third sliding member 316. Rotationof the third drive member 416 in one direction results in the thirdsliding member 316 moving linearly along the z-axis in a firstdirection. Rotation of the third drive member 416 in an opposingdirection results in the third sliding member 316 moving linearly alongthe z-axis in a second direction opposing the first direction. The thirdsliding member 316 is slidingly engaged with the third arm 116. Thethird arm 116 is generally parallel to the third drive member 416. Atleast a portion of the third sliding member 316 is affixed to at least aportion of the gripping portion 318. Movement of the third slidingmember 316 along either direction of the z-axis causes movement of thegripping portion 318 along the z-axis.

The robotic arm assembly 110 is connected to a control housing assembly140. The control housing assembly 140 includes one or more electricalcomponents 142 and one or more computer hardware components 144 of thecomputer system 160. The control housing assembly 140 may be connectedto a power supply (not shown). The control housing assembly 140 isconnected to the user interface 150 of the computer system.

As used herein, unless otherwise stated, the teachings envision that anymember of a genus (list) may be excluded from the genus; and/or anymember of a Markush grouping may be excluded from the grouping.

Unless otherwise stated, any numerical values recited herein include allvalues from the lower value to the upper value in increments of one unitprovided that there is a separation of at least 2 units between anylower value and any higher value. As an example, if it is stated thatthe amount of a component, a property, or a value of a process variablesuch as, for example, temperature, pressure, time and the like is, forexample, from 1 to 90, preferably from 20 to 80, more preferably from 30to 70, it is intended that intermediate range values such as (forexample, 15 to 85, 22 to 68, 43 to 51, 30 to 32 etc.) are within theteachings of this specification. Likewise, individual intermediatevalues are also within the present teachings. For values which are lessthan one, one unit is considered to be 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, or 0.1 asappropriate. These are only examples of what is specifically intendedand all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowestvalue and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to beexpressly stated in this application in a similar manner. As can beseen, the teaching of amounts expressed as “parts by weight” herein alsocontemplates the same ranges expressed in terms of percent by weight.Thus, an expression in the of a range in terms of at “‘x’ parts byweight of the resulting polymeric blend composition” also contemplates ateaching of ranges of same recited amount of “x” in percent by weight ofthe resulting polymeric blend composition.”

Unless otherwise stated, all ranges include both endpoints and allnumbers between the endpoints. The use of “about” or “approximately” inconnection with a range applies to both ends of the range. Thus, “about20 to 30” is intended to cover “about 20 to about 30”, inclusive of atleast the specified endpoints.

The disclosures of all articles and references, including patentapplications and publications, are incorporated by reference for ailpurposes. The term “consisting essentially of to describe a combinationshall include the elements, ingredients, components or steps identified,and such other elements ingredients, components or steps that do notmaterially affect the basic and novel characteristics of thecombination. The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” todescribe combinations of elements, ingredients, components or stepsherein also contemplates embodiments that consist of, or consistessentially of the elements, ingredients, components or steps.

Plural elements, ingredients, components or steps can be provided by asingle integrated element, ingredient, component or step. Alternatively,a single integrated element, ingredient, component or step might bedivided into separate plural elements, ingredients, components or steps.The disclosure of “a” or “one” to describe an element, ingredient,component or step is not intended to foreclose additional elements,ingredients, components or steps.

It is understood that the above description is intended to beillustrative and not restrictive. Many embodiments as well as manyapplications besides the examples provided will be apparent to those ofskill in the art upon reading the above description. The scope of theinvention should, therefore, be determined not with reference to theabove description, but should instead be determined with reference tothe appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to whichsuch claims are entitled. The disclosures of all articles andreferences, including patent applications and publications, areincorporated by reference for all purposes. The omission in thefollowing claims of any aspect of subject matter that is disclosedherein is not a disclaimer of such subject matter, nor should it beregarded that the inventors did not consider such subject matter to bepart of the disclosed inventive subject matter.

1: An apparatus comprising: a) a carrier including: i. a plurality ofmounts; and ii. a plurality of containers removably attached to thecarrier via the plurality of mounts; b) vertical and horizontaltranslational components; c) one or more information retrieval devices;d) a user interface including a data interface adapted to storeinformation on the one or more information retrieval devices; e) atransparent panel covering at least a portion of the dispensingapparatus; and wherein the one or more information retrieval device areadapted to be maintained in the possession of a user; and wherein theapparatus dispenses cosmetic samples based on user input. 2: Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the vertical and horizontal translationalcomponents are comprised of a robotic arm assembly. 3: The apparatusclaim 1, wherein the vertical and horizontal translational componentsare comprised of a robotic arm assembly including one or more armassemblies. 4: The apparatus claim 1, wherein the vertical andhorizontal translational components are comprised of a robotic armassembly including three arm assemblies. 5: The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the vertical and horizontal translational components include anarm assembly including a motor, a drive member, a sliding member and anarm. 7: The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vertical and horizontaltranslational components include an arm assembly including a motor, adrive member, a sliding member with a gripping portion and an arm. 8:The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vertical and horizontaltranslational components include a first arm assembly and a second armassembly including a motor, drive member, sliding member and an arm anda third arm assembly including a motor, drive member, sliding memberwith gripping portion and an arm. 9: The apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe vertical and horizontal translational components include a roboticarm assembly in which at least a portion of the robotic arm assemblymoves along one or more axis. 10: The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thevertical and horizontal translational components include a robotic armassembly with three arm assemblies in which at least a portion of therobotic arm assembly moves along the x-axis, the y-axis and the z-axis.11: The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the carrier is partially connectedto a platform. 12: The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the carrierincludes one more panels. 13: The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thecarrier is substantially rectangular in shape. 14: The apparatus ofclaim 1, the plurality of mounts are arranged in one or more rows and/orcolumns. 15: The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the container includes abottle portion and a cap portion. 16: The apparatus of claim 1,including a plurality of caps with attached cosmetic applicatorsremovably attached to the carrier via the plurality of mounts. 17: Theapparatus of claim 1, including a plurality of caps with attachedcosmetic applicators removably attached to the carrier via the pluralityof mounts, wherein the attached cosmetic applicators include mascarabrushes and lip gloss/concealer applicators. 18: The apparatus of claim1, including a plurality of caps with attached cosmetic applicatorsremovably attached to the carrier via the plurality of mounts, the capswith attached cosmetic applicators are adapted to fit with a grippingportion of a robotic arm assembly. 19: The apparatus of claim 1,including a control housing assembly including electrical components andcomputer components. 20: The apparatus of claim 1, including a controlhousing assembly including electrical components and computer componentsconnected to a robotic arm assembly.